1. The document discusses strategies for helping students succeed on tests, including having positive self-esteem, understanding the purpose of tests, and experiencing test-taking strategies in the classroom. 2. Successful test-takers are more "test-wise", understand how results will be used, and receive test preparation integrated into regular instruction. 3. Teachers should provide opportunities for students to experience and practice strategies like following directions, budgeting time, and making educated guesses.

1. Test-Taking Strategies that Work for All Students © Dr. Lourdes Ferrer www.drlourdes.net Minority Academic Achievement Specialist

2. What can teachers do to help students experience success in any testing situation?

5. Test preparation needs to be an on-going activity and part of regular classroom instruction integrated into all subjects.

6. “ Teachers must go beyond “telling” students what to do. Students should be provided with ample classroom opportunities to experience using strategies required to be successful in any testing situation.” Dr. Lourdes Ferrer Dr. Lourdes Ferrer

7. 1. Expect good results and model a positive attitude. 2. Use motivational activities and provide incentives. 3. Discuss the purpose and relevance of the test.

8. 5. Discuss the test format. 4. Correlate classroom activities with the test. 6. Know and practice correct test administration procedures. 7. Provide a quiet, orderly testing environment.

9. 9. Provide reassurance that they have covered the content and skills measured by the test. 10. Provide feedback on results. 8. Anticipate and deal with test anxiety. GOOD FEEDBACK!

11. 13. Create and “test” the scoring guide or rubric BEFORE administering the test to the students. 12. Take the test or do the assignment BEFORE administering to the students.

12. 14. Involve students in their own test development process, including the rubric and/or scoring guide.

14. 16. Teach the following NINE test-taking strategies and provide students with ample opportunities to practice them in classroom. 1. Following directions closely 2. Budgeting time appropriately 3. Checking work carefully 4. Reading the entire stem and ALL answer choices 5. Answering easier questions first and persisting to the end

15. 6. Making educated guesses 7. Using “real test-liked” item formats for practice 8. Reviewing the practice items and answer choices with the teacher or other students 9. Practicing using answer sheets Continued…

16. 17. Reward and celebrate success. “ It is always important to reward and celebrate academic success. It is great for the spirit and for a student’s willingness to keep trying.” Ms. Stafford, Principal Forest Hill Community High School Palm Beach County School District

17. Dr. Lourdes Ferrer, ELL , Hispanic and African American Academic Achievement Specialist and NCLB Consultant www.drlourdes.net 561-236-4154